Mountaineer Chapter
Bowden Fishing Derby

About the Derby

The Bowden Fishing Derby is part of the Hooked On Fishing, Not on Drugs (HOFNOD) program and is strongly supported by the Mountaineer Chapter of the Izaak Walton League. Held each year during National Fishing and Boating Week (the first full week of June), the event introduces children to fishing as a healthy, enjoyable outdoor activity.

This event complements the Randolph County HOFNOD Expo, held each spring, by providing a true hands-on experience on the water.

Who Can Participate

• Open to all children ages 3–14

• Free of charge for every participant

• Typically attracts an average of over 300 young anglers each year

How It Works

The Bowden State Trout Hatchery serves as the site of the derby. Several ponds are specially stocked for the event:

• Harvest Ponds: Each child may use bait and keep up to two trout

• Catch-and-Release Pond: For more experienced anglers who can cast lures or use a fly rod

This structure gives both beginners and seasoned youth anglers the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding fishing experience.

Chapter Involvement

The Mountaineer Chapter plays an important role in making this event a success. Volunteers assist in many ways:

• Helping children learn to cast and catch fish

• Cleaning and filleting fish

• Running the food wagon, which raises funds to support both the Fishing Derby and the HOFNOD Expo

Why It Matters

The Bowden Fishing Derby helps introduce hundreds of kids to outdoor recreation each year, encouraging lifelong skills, conservation awareness, and healthy alternatives to drugs and negative influences.